Idol Chatter & Voice Views

Rose Short of Killeen, Texas, performs during The Voice, Season 17, blind auditions. (NBC Photo)

So it took some convincing to get her to audition for Season 17 of The Voice.

But it took little convincing to get chairs to turn once she hit the audition stage and launched into her cover of John Legend’s “Preach.”

Kelly Clarkson and Gwen Stefani both turned their chairs for the performance. Gwen called her voice “ridiculous.”

And Rose opted to join Team Gwen.

Here’s what the 34-year-old from Killeen, Texas, told Voice Views about her blind audition experience.

Voice Views: How did you wind up auditioning for The Voice Season 17 and what prompted you to do it?

Rose: Truth moment — confession. I was not on board at first. Only because I’ve done this type of competition before and when they don’t go as planned it can be draining and discouraging.
My manager came to me and said, ‘You can’t give up; this time will be different.’

And it was. Not because the chairs turned,. That’s not what made it different. What made it different was the work that we did. We did healing work, forgiveness work, work on ourselves. Mentally, I wasn’t ready before. This time was different because I didn’t go in feeling like I’m trying to win a competition, I went in already a winner because I didn’t give up. The moment I chose to give it another shot, I won. I want everyone pursuing their dream to catch what I just said. The moment I decided to give it another shot, I won.

Voice Views: Why did you choose “Preach” for your audition song?

Rose: I chose “Preach” for a few reasons. A ballad is a great way to show range. I felt like the strategy worked when Gwen pointed out that she enjoyed that I gave a build-up in my performance. Most importantly, I know that I’m not just a singer. I have an opportunity to impact through my music. So I chose a song that impacts through its message.

Voice Views: Why did you decide to join Team Gwen?

Rose: One of the things Gwen said in her pitch to me was that some of the greatest artists are not necessarily strong singers, but their heart and ability to connect with people is huge. And she’s right. This is actually one of the things that I say all the time and have encouraged other singers on their journey. So when I heard that I knew we were on one accord and she was the coach for me.

One of my favorite artists is Mary J Blige. She doesn’t have the voice of Aretha Franklin or Patti Labelle. But she has the soul. Her delivery, the way she carries herself. Her dress. I absolutely adore her. Since I was 6 years old! Mary has stolen my heart.

See also:
Meet Rose Short